Life with Sherlock

"I know, John. I know. Jeebers."

Both of the men shot Karen a look. John's eyes were murderous, and Sherlock's bordered on irritation and humor.

"But seriously, where do you think she is, Sherlock. Tell us."

Sherlock looked away, but not before Karen saw shame flit across his face. "I … I don't know."

"Then why are we even…. you bleeding idiot."

The cab came to a stop and Sherlock jumped out, eyes to the ground but his face full of determination. "I'll text you when I need you," he muttered, and was off before either could say anything.

Karen ran after Sherlock. "You were griping about the scarf." she said, handing the scarf to Sherlock.

Sherlock turned to her, and the look in his eyes turned her cold. His eyes had a haunted, terrified edge to them, and Karen involuntarily took a step back.

"Are you mentally stable, Sherlock?" she asked.

His eyes flitted across her face, and he almost imperceptibly shook his head. "Karen, we need to find her. I have a theory, but …"

"Go on…"

"There has been this strange aura the last few times we've talked, compelling me to believe that she is under some sort of influence. I don't know what kind."

"Okay, you're on drugs. Let's get you home." she said.

"I'm not on drugs!" he hissed. "Karen, you need to believe me. Something is wrong, very wrong, and Danielle is right in the thick of it!"

"Yes, yes, but let's get you lying down."

Oh God, my best friend has gone crazy. Karen thought.

"Karen! I can't, don't you understand? She is in danger!"

"Sure, Sherlock." Karen sighed.

Sherlock turned away, muttering in frustration before snatching his scarf back and putting it around his neck.

"Sherlock, I'm skeptical but…. the game is on, I guess?"

Karen smiled weakly.

Without warning the consulting detective whirled around and enveloped Karen in a bear hug."Thank you," he murmered.

"Look at you, Mr. Love-is-a-chemical-defect. How sappy."

"It is a chemical defect, found only in the weak. Like you," Sherlock retorted, pulling away.

"And you, it seems. At least I actually care enough to keep you from killing yourself out of boredom."

"A weakness, Karen. A weakness," Sherlock snorted, turning and walking again.

"Well, love is more of a strength. Which you officially have. Love, I mean. It's really not a defect."

"And you really should stop being so arrogant about this. People care about you, start caring about then a little and see where that takes you."

Sherlock ignored her, winding through the crowds ahead of her. There were so many people, Karen was afraid she might lose him. And then she did.

"Sherlock! Where are you?" Karen cried out.